In early 1942, shipping losses in the Atlantic threatened Britain's very survival. In addition to the U-boat menace, there was the real concern that the German Battleship TIRPITZ be unleashed against the Allied convoys. Only the 'Normandie' dock at St nazaire could take her vast size in the event that repairs being required. Destroy that and TIRPITZ would be neutralised.
Thus was borne Operation CHARIOT, the daring Commando raid that, while ultimately successful, proved hugely costly.
The St. Nazaire raid has not been covered in the detail warranted by its role in the evolution of special warfare tactics. James Dorrian has drawn on interviews with over 100 survivors, both British and German, to present this remarkable account. All aspects of the engagement are covered, including the final ironic incident that resulted in more German casualties than the main battle itself.
ISBN: 9780850528077
Format: Paperback
Author(s): James G Dorrian
First Publishment Date: 20 December 2009